Each month we are going to be highlighting one of the PhD’s of the project so their work can be showcased. We continue with Manuel Gonzalez, PhD in USC. We are asking the PhD’s five questions and here is how Manu answered.
Good morning Manu, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I consider myself to be a hardworking, proactive, responsible, reliable, friendly and sociable person. I am passionate about traveling, reading books and gastronomy. As for work, I am a good team player who understands teamwork as an integral part of laboratory practice. I am also capable of working without constant supervision and able to multitask, always willing to take on additional responsibilities whenever needed and further develop my skills and knowledge. I strive to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of all duties performed through dedication and commitment.
Could you explain your last parper or discovery?
Of all the papers, I have a special affection for my first work during the doctoral Thesis, where I designed hybrid magnetic nanostructures for dual MRI/PET bioimaging. These nanostructures were internalized in mesenchymal stem cells and as a result of their biodistribution were observed to be found in the lung. This finding is relevant because the lungs are not a common organ where nanomaterials drain from the bloodstream, which would be of special interest for detection, targeted diagnosis or lung therapy (cancer, respiratory diseases, among others).
Which is the advancement for science and technology that you are currently studying?
Among nanomaterials, magnetic nanostructrures are a sample of what science is making available for a more efficient, safer and sustainable industry.
Which would you say are the possible impacts on society?
The possibility of manipulating biological processes in the nanoscale range is opening the way to milestones in the health sciences and especially in personalized medicine, leading to new teragnostic approaches, difficult to achieve with conventional therapies and, on the other hand, by helping to reduce costs in the health system In this way, the limitations, both clinical and socio-economic, are resolved through alternative strategies that can contribute, for example, to the early diagnosis of diseases, which are currently only detectable in advanced stages (neurodegenerative diseases, for example), and to treatment (in the areas of cancer and regenerative medicine).
Is there someone you want to acknowledge?
First, I have to start mentioning my parents, Rosario and Antonio, I have much to thank them for teaching me what is unconditional love, support, perseverance… thanks to them I have become what I am. To my thesis directors, Yoly and Pepe, for giving me the opportunity to develop this thesis, for the support received and for helping me grow and mature scientifically.
You can find Manuel’s scientific publications at:
